Principal Analyst, Data & Insights

About the role
As Principal Analyst Data, you will lead complex analysis and research that improves outcomes for Pacific Peoples. You will provide technical and analytical leadership across the Ministry, using evidence to inform policy and government decisions.
Working with large datasets—including Stats NZ’s Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI), administrative and survey data—you will design robust quantitative research and turn findings into clear, decision-ready insights. You will lead quality assurance, develop reproducible code, improve automation, explore responsible uses of AI, partner across government, and coach staff to strengthen data and evidence capability.

What you’ll bringHere at the Ministry for Pacific Peoples, we value a diverse range of talents and backgrounds.Our ideal candidate will bring:

• A strong record in quantitative analysis, research and evidence-based advice, including work with large, complex datasets. Experience with the IDI or other linked administrative data is highly desirable.
• Strong SQL and R or Python skills, with experience creating efficient, reproducible code and robust workflows using testing, documentation, version control and quality assurance.
• Strong knowledge of quantitative methods, statistical analysis and research design, including selecting appropriate methods for complex questions.
• An interest in automation, modern analytical tools and responsible AI.
• The ability to lead complex, undefined analytical work and communicate findings clearly to policy, senior and non-technical audiences.
• Knowledge of New Zealand’s policy environment, with experience coaching staff and building strong relationships across policy, research, government and other organisations.
• A demonstrated commitment to Pacific Peoples, understanding of Pacific perspectives, and credibility with Pacific communities.A relevant tertiary qualification, ideally in a quantitative discipline such as statistics, data science, economics, econometrics, public policy, social science or population research.

Why join us?
Join a supportive, inclusive workplace that values your growth, wellbeing and success. Benefits include:

• Healthcare insurance
• Subsidised eye care
• Three additional annual leave days between Christmas and New Year

You will tackle issues that matter for Pacific Peoples, influence government decisions and help shape the Ministry’s analytical capability. A thriving Pacific community benefits all Aotearoa.
Our Organisation – Ministry for Pacific Peoples
The Ministry for Pacific Peoples is the Crown’s principal advisor on improving outcomes for Pacific Peoples in New Zealand. We bring Pacific voices and perspectives into government decisions and provide robust, evidence-based policy advice to Ministers and agencies.
Our inclusive, respectful workplace is guided by Pacific values: Ola fetufaaki (Reciprocity), Tapuakiga (Spirituality), Soalaupule (Consensus), Piri’anga (Collectivism), Fakalilifu (Respect), Magafaoa (Family), and Aro’a (Love).
As Tangata te Tiriti, we support the Crown’s relationships with Māori under the Treaty of Waitangi and te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Interested? – How to apply
Apply online by selecting Apply below or visiting www.mpp.govt.nz.
If you would like more information, please email [email protected].
To see a copy of the job description please copy and paste the link below. 
https://www.mpp.govt.nz/assets/People-Culture/New-JD-links/Principal-Analyst-Data-Insights-FINAL.pdf
Closing date: 5pm, Tuesday 13 October 2026
Please note:

1. Applicants must have the right to work in New Zealand and hold a valid visa.
2. Applications may be reviewed as received, so apply early.